A HEATRBROKEN family of a former plumber who died from an asbestos-related cancer have launched an appeal to find answers about how he came to be exposed to asbestos at work in Halesowen. Richard Maxted, was 64 when he died in March 2012 after a six-month battle with mesothelioma, a cancer in the lining of the lungs caused by exposure to asbestos.

His daughter Heidi Maxted and specialist industrial illness lawyers at Irwin Mitchell are appealing for former work mates at Frank Gadd and W Tibbett (Heating) to get in touch.

They want to investigate the working conditions with his former employers to find out where and why he was exposed to asbestos.

Mr Maxted, from Hereford, worked at Gadd’s from 1975 until 1982 and Tibbett’s from 1982 until 1983, neither of which still exist today.

Kim Barrett, an expert asbestos lawyer at Irwin Mitchell’s Birmingham office, leading the case, said: “We know that employers have known about the risks of using asbestos for many decades.

“The first asbestos regulations came into force in 1931. Sadly our work shows many did not do enough to protect workers from the harmful dust and fibres and too many people are now suffering from asbestos-related diseases decades later.

“Mr Maxted worked as a plumber throughout Herefordshire and the West Midlands from the late 1960s to late 1980s and Heidi believes her father was exposed to asbestos during this time.

“We now hope that anyone who has any information regarding the working practices and presence of asbestos at any of these companies comes forward to assist with our inquiries as it could prove vital in obtaining justice for Richard’s family.”

His daughter Ms Maxted, aged 36, also form Hereford, said the family had found it difficult to come to terms with his premature death.

“I urge anyone who knew or worked with my dad to come forward with any information as to the working conditions at any of these companies so that we can continue to seek justice for him.”

Anyone with any information on the working conditions at any of these companies is asked to contact Mrs Barrett on 0121 214 5211 or email kim.barrett@irwinmitchell.com.